In a major career shift, actress and social media personality Whitney Leavitt is trading the world of reality television for the bright lights of Broadway. The star, known for 'Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' and as a semi-finalist on 'Dancing with the Stars' Season 34, has officially announced she will make her professional theatrical debut in the long-running hit musical 'Chicago'.
From Ballroom to Broadway: The Announcement
Leavitt shared the exciting news with her fans on Instagram on Monday, December 1. She revealed she will be stepping into the iconic shoes of the ambitious murderess Roxie Hart. Her journey on the Great White Way will begin with a six-week limited engagement starting February 2, 2026, at New York City's historic Ambassador Theatre, running through March 2026.
"Grateful beyond words to ANNOUNCE that I will be joining @chicagomusical in the iconic role of Roxie Hart beginning Feb. 2nd 2026! See you in New York City!" Leavitt wrote in her social media post, expressing her thrill at joining the cast of the Tony Award-winning revival.
How 'Dancing with the Stars' Paved the Way
For followers of the 32-year-old Utah-based millennial mum of three, this move might not come as a complete surprise. Leavitt's path to Broadway seems to have been subtly auditioned during her time on 'Dancing with the Stars'. In a memorable performance, she and professional dancer Mark Ballas took on the Argentine tango set to 'Cell Block Tango' – one of the most famous numbers from 'Chicago' itself.
That high-pressure performance on national television demonstrated her capability to handle complex choreography. However, the role of Roxie Hart demands more than just dance skills. It requires sharp comedic timing, vocal power, and the charisma to sell a character that has been portrayed by numerous Broadway legends and celebrities over the decades.
Stepping Into a Broadway Legacy
Leavitt is joining a theatrical institution. 'Chicago' holds the record as the longest-running American musical in Broadway history, currently in its 29th year. The production is a celebrated revival with a book by Fred Ebb, original choreography by Bob Fosse, and is directed by Walter Bobbie with choreography by Ann Reinking.
The musical, with music by John Kander, tells a sex-and-death filled story of two murderesses, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, who manipulate the media and the legal system for fame. The show has won six Tony Awards, including Best Musical Revival, and a Grammy.
Leavitt will be taking over the role from current star Kate Baldwin. The principal cast also features Sophie Carmen-Jones as Velma Kelly, Tam Mutu as Billy Flynn, and Tony winner Alex Newell as Matron 'Mama' Morton, with Raymond Bokhour and R. Lowe completing the lineup.
This debut marks a significant new chapter for Whitney Leavitt, moving from reality TV and social media fame to the ultimate test of live theatre. All eyes will be on the Ambassador Theatre come February 2026 to see her bring the legendary Roxie Hart to life.
